President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom with a special mandate to oversee and personally accompany the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria. The former president passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, marking a profound moment of mourning for the nation.
In a detailed statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, it was confirmed that President Buhari died at approximately 4:30 p.m. at a London hospital following a prolonged and undisclosed illness. His passing has thrown the country into deep grief, with tributes pouring in from leaders and citizens alike.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced with deep sorrow the passing of his immediate predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari. President Buhari died today in London at about 4:30 p.m. after a lengthy illness,” the statement noted.
Describing Buhari’s death as an “irreparable national loss,” Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Buhari family and to all Nigerians who are mourning this monumental loss. The President also revealed that he had spoken directly to the former First Lady, Mrs. Aishat Buhari, to personally convey his sympathies and offer words of comfort during this difficult time.
In a decisive move aimed at ensuring a dignified and swift repatriation, President Tinubu instructed Vice President Shettima to depart immediately for London to facilitate all necessary diplomatic and logistical arrangements. Shettima is expected to coordinate closely with officials at the Nigerian High Commission in the UK, as well as with the late president’s family and medical team abroad.
“President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria,” Onanuga further confirmed in the statement, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to honoring the late leader with the utmost respect.
President Muhammadu Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s modern democratic era. After leaving office, he largely retreated from public life, focusing on personal affairs and spending time with his family. His death now closes a significant chapter in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic history.
As the country begins to mourn, leaders from within and outside Nigeria have started sending condolences, praising Buhari’s contributions to national development, his anti-corruption efforts, and his dedication to national security. Nigerians across different regions have been paying tribute, organizing prayers, and reflecting on his legacy.
Further details regarding funeral rites, national mourning protocols, and memorial activities are expected to be announced by the presidency and the Buhari family in the coming days. Nigerians and the international community will be watching closely as preparations unfold to honor one of the country’s most prominent political figures.